Tony Thorpe equalised early in the second half, but the comeback was short lived as Steve McMahon’s side went on to secure the win thanks to Murphy’s efforts.

Mark Boyd hit a brace to lead relegation-threatened Port Vale to a much needed 5-2 victory over Chesterfield.

Brian Horton’s men coasted into a four-goal lead inside 20 minutes through Stephen McPhee (2), Boyd (10), Ian Armstrong (15) and Stephen Brooker (18).

The visitors rallied through Rob Edwards (34) and Marcus Ebdon (45) to reduce the deficit before half-time, but Boyd had the final say on 66 minutes with a cool run and finish.

At Ashton Gate, play-off hopefuls Bristol City were held to a goalless draw by Brentford.

Darren O’Connor came off the bench to bag a late brace as in-form Bournemouth moved back into an automatic promotion place in Division Three with a 3-0 win over struggling Swansea.

The midfielder stroked home two penalties in the dying stages - one deep into stoppage time - to seal victory for the Cherries after James Hayter had put them in front on the stroke of half-time.

York stretched their unbeaten run to five games, but had to be content with a point at Shrewsbury.

Luke Rodgers secured a point for the home side with a goal in each half (30 & 74) after York had come from behind to lead through Graham Potter (60) and Jon Parkin (62).

Rochdale warmed up for their FA Cup fifth-round date with Wolves by beating Darlington 1-0 away courtesy of a goal from Clive Platt on 21 minutes.

Martin Gritton’s 13th goal of the season midway through the first half won Torquay the West Country derby against Exeter at Plainmoor to keep the Gulls in the play-off hunt.